What's the news?

The sixth and latest chapter in the Gran Turismo video game series is set to be unveiled to the world in Ronda and the Ascari Race Resort in Spain ahead of the game's official launch. Gamers across the globe will be able to get their hands on Gran Turismo 6 on 6th December; however, a two-day event in Ronda that begins on 2nd December will give even more of an insight into the new game.

The reason why Polyphony Digital's President, Kazunori Yamauchi, has decided to launch the game in Ronda is simple. Over the past few months, a team from Polyphony has spent day and night at the city in an effort to recreate it in as much detail possible for use in the new game. Ronda features prominently in GT6's Photo Mode; the surrounding countryside provides a superb backdrop for the new Course Maker function making its debut in GT6.

"We are very excited to welcome the gaming world to the city of Ronda for the launch of Gran Turismo 6," comments Maria de la Paz Fernandez Lobato, Mayor of Ronda. "Throughout the years, artists and writers have been captivated by Ronda, and I believe that Yamauchi-san is no different!"

In addition to Ronda, the event will also find itself at the famous Ascari Race Resort where visitors can experience both real and virtual laps of the Ascari circuit; itself having been recreated in Gran Turismo for the first time.

"Seeing the Ascari circuit in Gran Turismo 6 is fantastic - it is a shock to see how accurately the Polyphony team have recreated it," said Klaas Zwart, owner of the Ascari Resort. "Being chosen as the venue to launch such an important game is an honour for us, and Gran Turismo fans will enjoy driving a special circuit that very few people ever have the chance to."

Yamauchi-san added his own comments by stating, "Launching Gran Turismo 6 in Ronda will be a real honour for me, and being able to utilise the Ascari Race Resort for some real driving experiences is also a thrill. I am excited to be able to demonstrate our work just prior to the release of the game."

Anything else?

Unfortunately, not just anyone can turn up to the launch event; as entry is on an invitation-only basis. Gamers can keep up to date, however, via the game's official website, www.gran-turismo.com.

James Giddings - 19 Nov 2013